why make this recipe
Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and colorful dish that’s perfect for any dinner. It combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and a delightful sauce. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
how to make Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients :
- â…“ cup soy sauce (for saltiness and savory depth)
- 3 Tbsp brown sugar (adds sweetness to balance the salt)
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil (for a rich, nutty flavor)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced, for aromatic and savory depth)
- 2 tsp grated fresh ginger (adds warmth and spice)
- 1.5 Tbsp cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- â…“ cup water (to dilute and make a smooth sauce)
- 1 tsp sriracha (for a spicy kick)
- 0.8 lb. broccoli (cut into small florets, for crunch and green color)
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced, for sweetness and texture)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced, for color and sweetness)
- 1 small onion (sliced, for flavor and texture)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish and mild onion flavor)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.7 lb. total, cut into ½-inch pieces)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil, divided (for frying the chicken and vegetables)
Directions :
- Start by making the stir fry sauce. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sriracha, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Chop the broccoli into small florets. Slice the red bell pepper, onion, and carrots into similar-sized pieces. Slice the green onions and set all the vegetables aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts into small ½-inch pieces.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 Tbsp of cooking oil and swirl to coat the surface. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 6 minutes. Be careful not to overcook. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of cooking oil. Add the carrots and broccoli, cooking for 1 minute or until the broccoli turns bright green.
- Add the red bell pepper and onion. Continue cooking and stirring for 1-2 more minutes.
- Give the stir fry sauce another brief stir. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, then pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, top with green onions, and optional sesame seeds. Serve immediately!
how to serve Chicken Stir Fry
Serve Chicken Stir Fry hot, right after cooking. You can enjoy it on its own or with a side of rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
how to store Chicken Stir Fry
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also use a microwave, but be careful to not overcook it.
tips to make Chicken Stir Fry
- Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and crunch.
- Feel free to add or swap vegetables according to your preference, like snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Adjust the sriracha to your spice level preference.
variation
You can easily make this Chicken Stir Fry vegetarian by replacing chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also use a different protein like beef or shrimp for a twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Stir Fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Cook the chicken and stir fry them on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor.
2. Is Chicken Stir Fry healthy?
It can be very healthy! It includes lean protein and lots of colorful vegetables. You can also control the amount of sugar and oil used.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Stir Fry?
It is not recommended to freeze it as veggies can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze just the sauce for future use.
